Nevertheless, if the first test screening is anything to go by, then the filmmaker has delivered on those sky-high expectations… and then some. Per Deadline, one unnamed film executive praised the upbeat music and “joyous choreography,” even going so far as to claim that Mary Poppins Returns is a family movie for the ages – not unlike its predecessor, then.

Director Rob Marshall has created a masterpiece in updating one of the most beloved stories of all time. It is an uplifting story and visually lush film, with happy songs, joyous choreography and some just dazzling animated scenes. In Mary Poppins Returns, once again Disney has made a family movie for the ages.

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The praise doesn’t end there, either, as another pair of attendees gushed over Marshall’s achievement, which supposedly honors the whimsical spirit of the original Mary Poppins all the while delivering cutting-edge visuals.

It is [in all caps] MY FAVORITE MOVIE OF THE YEAR. I grew up with Mary Poppins and love everything about the original, and the sequel absolutely met my high expectations. Loved!

And another reaction, just for good measure:

Mary Poppins Returns brings back all the wonder and magic of the original film while adding new layers in both music, songs and stunning visuals. The film is sure to be a holiday favorite, so hats off to Rob Marshall.

High praise, indeed, and we’ll be able to see what all the fuss is about once Mary Poppins Returns descends into theaters on December 19th – just in time for the Christmas holidays.